If Your're Gonna Talk The Talk, Please Walk The Walk

I received a post on my funwall from a friend of mine. It's a picture depicting First Nations art and the sage words; Humility, Honesty, Truth, Bravery, Honesty, Respect & Love. In the post, my friend implies that these are "First Nations" virtues. Personally, I don't think it's a good idea to speak for a group of people. But, since my friend thinks these words are appropriate to this type of people, lets take a look. I lived in a town that had a high percentage of First nations people. Of all the drunks I saw on Front Street I would have to say that 95% were First Nations. Of the social services in town, I'd have to say that 80% are geared toward First Nations. The high suicide rate in the Northern communities is one of the highest in Canada. Public defecation and vagrancy are primarily a First nations problem. Doesn't sound so virtuous does it?

Let me be perfectly clear here, I am in no way saying that people with financial , social, mental or addiction problems are any less human than I am, but implying that these 7 "virtues" can be applied to all First Nations is not a true reflection of that society - or any society for that matter.

I believe that we should all try and emulate these 7 virtues - that would be a great start, but let's look at the misfortunates of society realistically. And remember, if you're going to talk the talk, do us all a favour and walk in your own shoes.

FMF